OM – Emerson Palmieri: “Strasbourg more important than PSG”

A welcome that changes everything

Having arrived at the end of the transfer window, Emerson Palmieri has already established himself in the Marseille locker room. At a press conference before the trip to Strasbourg, the Italian international made sure to thank OM for his smooth integration:

🗣️ “I’ve only been here for a month but I’m very happy. The players, the coach, the supporters welcomed me in an incredible way. That really helped me quickly get onto the pitch, play well, and help the team.”

De Zerbi’s choice

The left-back confirmed that Roberto De Zerbi’s call was decisive in his decision to come:

🗣️ “When he called me, I said yes right away. We already knew each other from facing off in the Premier League. His style of play matches what I like.”

PSG behind, Strasbourg ahead

There’s no question of getting carried away after the historic win against Paris: Emerson stressed the importance of the next match.

🗣️ “We beat PSG with a lot of determination, but we need to move on quickly. Strasbourg is more important than PSG. They’re ahead of us in the standings, it’s always tough over there. We’re focusing only on this match, with humility and hard work.”

A collective defense

Asked about OM’s defensive solidity, the Italian emphasized the collective effort:

🗣️ “Our pressing starts with the No. 9. Against Paris, the forwards ran a lot, and that makes our job at the back easier. Modern football requires everyone’s participation.”

Physically, Emerson was reassuring: “The more you play, the better you feel. In Madrid, I finished with a bit of fatigue, but against Paris I lasted 90 minutes. I’m ready to keep going.”

Already bonded with his teammates

The defender handed out compliments:

• On Mason Greenwood: 🗣️ “He’s the player who impressed me the most. I had seen him in England, but seeing him every day confirms his tremendous quality.”
• On Timothy Weah: 🗣️ “I knew his qualities from Juve, but here he brings even more. He’s very strong, very useful for the team.”
• On Nayef Aguerd: 🗣️ “He’s a great player, we shared a lot at West Ham. He’s already showing his qualities here and he’ll do even better.”

With a clear message, Emerson Palmieri made it known: no complacency after Paris, only the battle in Strasbourg matters. A mindset that perfectly matches the supporters’ expectations and De Zerbi’s project.